A.B. Graham was the founder of what became the 4-H program beginning in Ohio. The first organization, called, the Boys and Girls Experiment Club, met in January of 1902. With the Smith-Lever Act being signed on May 8, 1914, a federal partnership with state and local governments created the Cooperative Extension Service. The 4-H program became part of the Cooperative Extension, and here in California our 4-H program is tied to the land-grant institution of University of California. In the early days of 4-H, the focus was an initiative to support rural youth in learning about agriculture and areas related to rural living. As a result, youth participating in the 4-H program would grow into leaders through the support of the community.
Now to catch up with modern times, Placer County 4-H's goal is still to guide and development leaders of tomorrow through the support of the community. In the formative years of 4-H, the focus may have been on rural youth. Today, our focus is on the youth of our communities in Placer County, if that be the urban centers of Roseville and Rocklin, to our rural small towns of Colfax and Alta, and everywhere in-between. There are opportunities for all youth!
The Placer County All Stars were able to express what 4-H has to offer to the Board of Supervisors at the March 10, 2015 meeting. Henia Mackenroth, Suneet Narwan, and Mia Zimmer are 4-H All Stars and have been in the program for over five years. Each teen was able to speak on meaningful experiences and growth they have had due to Placer County 4-H, as well as how 4-H has contributed to their futures, if it be pursuing agriculture or politics. It was commented, what strong female leaders and examples Henia, Suneet, and Mia were for the county.
Placer County 4-H strives to make a difference for all youth in Placer County. The organization may be more than 100 years old, but Placer County 4-H is excited and ready to thrive. Be a part of the strength, be a part of the difference, be a part of the future, be a part of Placer 4-H strong! The opportunities for youth in 4-H are limitless, and 4-H is active in a majority of communities within Placer County. A new 4-H year will begin on July 1st, so please visit our website and social media sites to get more information. Online enrollment will begin in Early August.
If you have any additional questions, please call the 4-H Office at (530) 889-7386.
http://ucanr.edu/sites/placercounty4h/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Placer-County-4-H/192334750781750